School districts argue case

AUSTIN - Hundreds of Texas school districts will be represented in court today, arguing that Texas has fallen short of its constitutional responsibility to provide "a general diffusion of knowledge."

Attorneys for the state contend that Texas has met and exceeded the basic minimum requirements set forth in the Constitution. Whatever the final ruling of Judge John Dietz, the decision is expected to be appealed to a higher court. The trial starts today and could last more than a month.

"We just look forward to the opportunity to put forth the state's case and to put on evidence of the progress and achievement that Texas public education has made," Assistant Attorney General Jeff Rose said.

Rich and poor districts have joined the lawsuit against the state, arguing that schools in Texas are underfunded.